Half Double Crochet (hdc)

If you’ve mastered the single crochet stitch and are ready to add a bit more height and texture to your projects, the half double crochet (hdc) stitch is a great next step. It’s slightly taller than a single crochet but shorter than a double crochet, making it a perfect choice for many crochet designs.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make a half double crochet stitch so you can add it to your crochet skills and create beautiful, textured pieces.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Yarn: Choose the yarn of your choice (medium-weight yarn works well for beginners).
• Crochet Hook: Pick a hook that suits your yarn. A 5mm (H-8) hook works well for medium-weight yarn.
• Scissors: To cut your yarn once finished.
• Yarn Needle (optional): For weaving in the ends later.

Step 1: Make a Slip Knot

Before you begin, you’ll need to make a slip knot and place it on your hook.

1. Create a loop with the yarn.
2. Pull the tail of the yarn through the loop to form a knot.
3. Place the knot on your hook and tighten it so it moves easily.

Step 2: Chain Stitch

To begin, create a foundation chain.

1. Yarn over (wrap the yarn around the hook from back to front).
2. Pull the yarn through the loop on your hook.
3. Repeat this process to make a chain of the desired length for your project.

Step 3: Yarn Over and Insert Your Hook

1. Yarn over once (wrap the yarn around your hook).
2. Insert your hook into the third chain from the hook (the first two chains won’t be used for this stitch).

Step 4: Yarn Over and Pull Through

1. Yarn over again.
2. Pull the yarn through the chain, so you now have three loops on your hook.

Step 5: Complete the Half Double Crochet

1. Yarn over one last time and pull through all three loops on your hook. This completes your half double crochet stitch.

Step 6: Repeat the Process

To continue your row, repeat Step 3 through Step 5 until you reach the end of the row.

Step 7: Turn Your Work and Start a New Row

Once you’ve finished a row of half double crochet stitches, turn your work around so the other side is facing you. For the next row, chain 2 (this will help keep the height of the stitches consistent), then repeat the half double crochet stitch across the row.

Tips for Success:

• Tension: Try to keep your tension even to ensure a neat and consistent look.
• Stitch Placement: Make sure you’re inserting your hook into the top of the previous stitch. It’s easy to miss, so be mindful of the space you’re working with.
• Counting Stitches: Counting your stitches at the end of each row is a great way to ensure your work is staying straight.

When to Use Half Double Crochet:

The half double crochet stitch is perfect for creating projects that require a bit more height than a single crochet, but not as much height as a double crochet. It’s great for creating textured fabrics like blankets, scarves, and even garments. You can also combine it with other stitches to create beautiful patterns.

Now that you know how to make a half double crochet stitch, you can start using it in your projects to add lovely texture and depth!

Happy Crocheting!